MUTA Denounces State Song Demotion at MSU Convocation Following Raj Bhavan Order
The Madurai Kamaraj and Teachers’ Association (MUTA) is protesting a protocol shift relegating 'Tamil Thai Vazhthu' to third place at the upcoming MSU degree ceremony. Faculty leaders claim the change, dictated by the Governor’s office, undermines regional identity and university autonomy.
Conflict Over Protocol at 33rd MSU Convocation
A dispute has erupted over the official sequencing of invocation songs for the 33rd convocation of Manonmaniam Sundaranar University (MSU) scheduled for July 28. The Madurai Kamaraj, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Mother Teresa, Alagappa, Tamil Nadu Teachers’ Education, and Anna University Teachers’ Association (MUTA) issued a formal statement condemning the new arrangement. Under current plans confirmed by Vice-Chancellor Prof. N. Chandrasekar, the ceremony will open with 'Vande Mataram,' followed by the National Anthem, leaving the state song, 'Tamil Thai Vazhthu,' in the third position.
Administrative Coercion and Academic Autonomy
MUTA General Secretary A.T. Senthamaraikannan characterized the directive from the Governor’s office as heavy-handed administrative overreach. The association highlighted concerns regarding the Vice-Chancellor’s admission that deviating from the Raj Bhavan circular could lead to punitive consequences. MUTA argues this represents a direct intrusion into the state’s jurisdictional authority. The educators specifically noted the following objections:
- Historical Irony: Relegating the song is particularly disrespectful given that the university bears the name of Professor P. Manonmaniam Sundaram Pillai, the author of 'Tamil Thai Vazhthu.'
- State Identity: The association views the tertiary placement of the state song as a slight against the Tamil language and its cultural heritage.
- External Pressure: Faculty leaders reject the idea that the Governor's presence should dictate a demotion of regional official protocols.
Demands for Government Intervention
The academic association is now urging the Tamil Nadu state government to step in before the July 28 event. MUTA demands that the state song be restored to its traditional prominence, insisting that university ceremonies must remain free from external coercion or conditional mandates imposed by the Lok Bhavan. The association maintains that preserving the Dignity of 'Tamil Thai Vazhthu' is a matter of upholding the legacy of the university’s namesake and the autonomy of the institution.
Source: The Hindu — News
